Expert: Michael - 5/19/2002

Question
Is there someplace where I can get the times of the masses at the Catholic Churches? I am particularly interested in Stella Maris in St. Georges or St. Patrick's(I think) in Smith Parish. I have checked the yellow pages but only got the names of the churches. I could wait until we got there and check the times then.
Another question is about dining. Where is the best all around place to eat in Bermuda? By all around, I mean food and atmosphere. Last time we ate at Cafe Lido. This trip we are looking at Henry the VIII Pub. Any suggestions?  

Answer
Hi Rosemary,

There are several RC Churches on the island.  Maybe six.  You can find there locations at the Burmuda Shorts website.  www.bermudashorts.bm  The service times are not listed.  But it will put you in the right direction as to what church will be in the area you will be staying.

I have attended Stella Maris at both the Saturday service and Sunday morning at 10AM.  Of course service times may have changed.  Stella Maris is a lovely and quaint church.

Dining.  There are many all around places to delight you.  I can only tell you of what ones I find to have great caracture, atmosphere and fine food.  This may be different for you.

First of all we love the Sunday Brunch at the Carriage House.  For the money it is an outstanding buy.  From a culinary point of view it is delicious and quality.  Many, many offerings and you are not rushed.  The atmosphere is fabulous.  On St. Georges harbour.  Short money.  Approximately $30.00 pp.  If you decide to take this in call for a reservation immediately upon checking in.

Coconuts at the Reefs has the most romantic atmosphere.  A multi course gourmet dinner al fresco.  The surroundings are beautiful.  At set price of about $55.00 but will make a very very special occasion.  Well worth it.

I could go on Rosemary, but I will end with telling you that the pubs are wonderful.  Typical Bermudan.  You can have pub food as Fish & Chips, or Banger & Mash, all the way to Grouper Almadine, etc.  The pubs are a regular for me.  I prefer the ones on harbours and bays.
Not knowing where you are staying, I hesitate to suggest places.  But the above have served Linda and I well.

Henry VIII didn't get high marks from eityher of us.  We dined there twice and both times the staff seemed to have attitudes.  Not what we care for, neither is it appropriate on an enchanted island.  But the view, Rosemary, from the outdoor patio while tossing back a Watneys and black rum, or swizzle, or even a diet coke for that matter is idyllic.

Write if you have any further inquiries.  Linda and I have enjoyed this gem many times and I would be glad to help you from my experiance.

Happy planning!
Michael